West Brom star gets a new contract

Aug 28 2009 by Chris Lepkowski

"He’s settled in now after six months and is ready for this challenge.

"So far he has done a good job for the team and is doing well.

"It’s good that the club have given him a new deal.

"He’s a little bit different to the other midfielders here.

"Two years ago when we won the league it was me and Jonno in the middle and we found a good balance.

"Youssouf has good skills and is more of a sitting midfielder, which allows me or some else in the middle to go forward."

Roberto Di Matteo has been equally impressed with his young midfielder's progress.

He said: "I'm pleased with how Youssouf has started the season and he is very much part of our plans.

"He's an exciting, young, holding midfielder who will hopefully keep improving."

*CRAIG Beattie has ended his two-year stay with Albion by moving to Championship rivals Swansea.

The Scotland international will complete his move later today, provided he passes a medical, and will sign a three-year deal.

Albion have not disclosed his transfer fee but it has surpassed Swansea's record transfer fee, which was £400,000, and is thought to be in excess of £500,000 with extra add-ons.